But Jesus said, “Don’t be afraid”

Matthew 14:22-27 Immediately after this [feeding five thousand +], Jesus insisted that his disciples get back into the boat and cross to the other side of the lake, while he sent the people home. After sending them home, he went up into the hills by himself to pray. Night fell while he was there alone. Meanwhile, the disciples were in trouble far away from land, for a strong wind had risen, and they were fighting heavy waves. About three o’clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. When the disciples saw him walking on the water, they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, “It’s a ghost!” But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage, I am here!”

We all need these words, perhaps several times a day. Yes?

Alex, the youth pastor at our church, gave a wonderful sermon Sunday based on this passage, including the part about Peter walking on the water. Alex left us with unforgettable images:

The mountain, where heaven meets earth:

where we gain our perspective and strength through prayer,

where we can grieve, as Jesus grieved for his cousin John

The sea, where we encounter powers beyond our control:

              everything that rocks our boat

              But for Jesus, walking on the sea is the quickest way to reach us.

The boat, where we live our lives

              often full of frustration and fear

Lord, how are you coming near to me through the chaos of these days? Let me feel the touch of your hand. Come be with me in my boat and bring peace.

You can listen to the whole sermon here, 22:40-39:49—a wonderful use of 17 minutes!